If you’re just getting started with MAGIX Movie Edit Pro Plus, the very first screen you’ll see when you launch the software can be a little confusing. This screen isn’t just a splash page – it’s asking you to make an important decision before you even start editing: what film settings do you want to apply to your new project?
This is Part 1 of the DCP Web Designers beginners tutorial series on MAGIX Movie Edit Pro Plus, and it lays the foundation for everything else you’ll do in the software. Getting this step right from the start saves you from quality issues, mismatched frame rates, and export headaches down the line.
Why Film Settings Matter
NTSC vs. PAL: Which One Should You Choose?
Inside the film settings screen, you’ll see a range of resolution and format options, but the two big categories to understand are:
- NTSC – This is the standard typically used for American-style file formats and frame rates.
- PAL – This is the UK and European standard, generally running at 25 frames per second.
In the tutorial, the presenter – based in the UK – selects:
PAL HDTV, 16:9, 1920 x 1080p resolution, at 25 frames per second
This matches the way the footage was actually captured, which is the golden rule: always match your project settings to your source footage, not the other way around. Choosing the wrong format can lead to playback issues, stuttering, or incorrect speed when you eventually export your video.
Don't Forget Your Audio Sample Rate
While you’re setting up your project, you’ll also see an option for audio sample rate. The recommendation here is simple: leave it on the highest setting available. This ensures you capture and retain the best possible audio quality throughout your edit, which is especially important if you’re producing content for YouTube or other platforms where viewers expect clean, crisp sound.
Naming and Saving Your Project
Once you’ve selected your film settings:
- Give your project a name (by default, MAGIX will use the current date – you can leave this or customise it).
- Click OK to load your project.
At this point, you’ll land on the main MAGIX Movie Edit Pro Plus workspace, complete with a blank timeline and all the editing tools and settings panels you’ll use for cutting and arranging your footage.
Save Your Work Immediately
Before doing anything else, get into the habit of saving your project right away:
- Click Save Project.
- Give the file a clear, relevant name (e.g., “Selecting Quick Film Settings”).
- Click Save.
This small habit protects your work from the very first step and sets you up for a smoother editing session.
What's Next?
With your project created, named, and saved with the correct film settings, you’re ready to move on to the next stage: browsing and importing the actual content you want to add to your timeline. That’s exactly what the next tutorial in this DCP Web beginners series covers.
Key Takeaways
- Always match your film settings (resolution, frame rate, format) to how your footage was captured.
- Use PAL (25fps) if you’re in the UK/Europe, or NTSC if you’re following American standards.
- Set your audio sample rate to the highest available option for the best sound quality.
- Name and save your project immediately after creation to avoid losing work.
- This is the essential first step before you start adding and editing content in MAGIX Movie Edit Pro Plus.
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